Media

Arizona Rose Wins Trip to Emerald Isle

Alexis with the 2009 Rose of Tralee

December 18, 2009
By Alexis Hodel as told to Ann Niemann

As the 2009 Arizona Colleen, I am honored to carry the dual title Arizona Rose and to have competed in the 50th annual Rose of Tralee International Festival in County Kerry, Ireland. The 16-day trip in August was one of the most unique and incredible adventures I have ever had. Although I had visited Ireland once before in 2005 for the World Championships of Irish Dancing, this opportunity was a completely new and different experience.

Introducing The 2010 Little Miss Shamrocks

The 2010 Little Miss Shamrocks with the Judges

December 9, 2009

The Arizona Irish Community welcomes two new Little Miss Shamrocks, selected among 17 contestants on Sunday, November 15, 2009 at the Irish Cultural Center in Phoenix. Hosted by the Arizona Colleen Committee, we believe in creating a fun occasion for everyone there, and recognize the importance of sharing the title rather than focusing on one winner takes all. Every participant received an “all things shamrock” variety of gifts, a Little Miss Shamrock contestant tee-shirt, and will ride in the 2010 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Phoenix. The families and our local Irish can be VERY proud of these young ladies!

2010 Arizona Colleen and Rose of Tralee Selection

The 2009 Arizona Colleen and Rose Contestants

December 9, 2009

The 27th Annual Arizona Colleen and Rose of Tralee Selection invites the Irish Community and friends to attend this year’s grand event. The 2010 Arizona Colleen wins a prize package including $1,000 in scholarships and a trip to Ireland. She serves as a key spokesperson at Irish area events throughout the State and will carry the dual title of Arizona Rose when she competes at the Regionals competition in June that leads to the 51st Annual Rose of Tralee International Festival in County Kerry in Ireland next August. The final nights of judging are televised and represent one of the most watched programs in the country. The International Rose of Tralee wins a year-long world tour.

Chandler woman representing state in Irish culture fest

Alexis Hodel - 2009 Arizona Rose (close up)

Mar. 2, 2009 02:48 PM
The Chandler Republic

A Chandler woman who won the titles of 2009 Arizona Rose and Arizona Colleen will represent the state in the 50th annual Rose of Tralee International Festival in Ireland.

Alexis Hodel will be one of 50 women with the title of "rose" representing Irish centers from around the world. County Kerry hosts a series of events each August, including an elaborate parade with 60,000 attendees and culminating in two nationally televised programs with a viewing audience of 900,000.

Contact Arizona Colleen

By Mail:
Ann Niemann, Chair
3614 E. Brookwood Court
Phoenix, AZ 85048
602-568-3455

By eMail:
ann@azcolleen.org

Via the Web Site:
Email Arizona Colleen